This post is in honor of the #CompelledTribe Fueled by Vroom. I am fortunate to be part of a group of educators committed to reflecting and sharing through blogging. The first topic is gearing up for the new year!
I only have one more month to prepare for the new school year. Read that again. I am a little bit nervous as the summer has been full of opportunities. It's also been strife with setbacks. Some of the setbacks are personal and some are professional. Luckily, none of the setbacks are fatal. I'll get through them. We'll get through them.
Despite the ups and downs, I am still filled with optimism for the new year. This year will mark year three for me as a Middle School Principal/Director of Special Education. Prior to this present position, I've spent my administrative career in special education at the district level. I never imagined becoming a principal at the Middle School level. But, once I did, I found I really enjoy it. (I've written numerous times about the gifts this faculty brings to our school and my practice. You can check that out here and here.)
I've spent most of my time this summer completing the required paperwork, finalizing schedules, reviewing CSE items, collaborating with teachers, listening to feedback, and trying to rid my office and our school of clutter. I am making progress in these areas but still feel like I have much to do. Sometimes, I let that worry get the best of me.
When I think about the first few days back, professionally, I get extremely excited. I've been helping to plan what is likely to be an amazing workshop and keynote with Eric Sheninger. This will be a huge event for our rural district. His message about change, risk taking, and connections will likely help kickstart a deliberate conversation (and action) with my faculty.
Since there is only one more month until our official start, I will need to be more deliberate about how I use my time between now and then. I still have some time, off the clock, to fit in and need to make sure I do that. I sometimes have trouble finding a balance or allowing myself to miss the mark. That will likely be my main area of focus this year. Sure, I have very specific goals for school and some slightly specific goals for home. Yet, my main goal will be to strike a balance as I approach them and meet them or delete them!
I only have one more month to prepare for the new school year. Read that again. I am a little bit nervous as the summer has been full of opportunities. It's also been strife with setbacks. Some of the setbacks are personal and some are professional. Luckily, none of the setbacks are fatal. I'll get through them. We'll get through them.
Despite the ups and downs, I am still filled with optimism for the new year. This year will mark year three for me as a Middle School Principal/Director of Special Education. Prior to this present position, I've spent my administrative career in special education at the district level. I never imagined becoming a principal at the Middle School level. But, once I did, I found I really enjoy it. (I've written numerous times about the gifts this faculty brings to our school and my practice. You can check that out here and here.)
I've spent most of my time this summer completing the required paperwork, finalizing schedules, reviewing CSE items, collaborating with teachers, listening to feedback, and trying to rid my office and our school of clutter. I am making progress in these areas but still feel like I have much to do. Sometimes, I let that worry get the best of me.
When I think about the first few days back, professionally, I get extremely excited. I've been helping to plan what is likely to be an amazing workshop and keynote with Eric Sheninger. This will be a huge event for our rural district. His message about change, risk taking, and connections will likely help kickstart a deliberate conversation (and action) with my faculty.
Since there is only one more month until our official start, I will need to be more deliberate about how I use my time between now and then. I still have some time, off the clock, to fit in and need to make sure I do that. I sometimes have trouble finding a balance or allowing myself to miss the mark. That will likely be my main area of focus this year. Sure, I have very specific goals for school and some slightly specific goals for home. Yet, my main goal will be to strike a balance as I approach them and meet them or delete them!
Wow, Lisa, bringing in Eric is bringing in the big guns! :-) He will have a thought-provoking message, one that you will find a way to sustain once he's gone. How exciting for your district to have him visit!
ReplyDeleteI have been working on balance all year, just as you are seeking for your month until school starts. Be sure that you include FUN in your plans. The school year gets so busy that we need time for ourselves. Make sure that you do that so that you can be the best YOU when everyone returns.
Looking forward to reading about Eric's visit!
Jennifer
Thank you so much for taking time to comment. Eric sure is "big gun" stuff. I am ecstatic about his arrival. And, your advice about balance is right on. I have much to improve in this area and hope to finally "find a better" balance this year.
DeleteGreat work Lisa! Way to go BIG! Love the fact that you are working with your district and sharing with them the power of social media and being connected. Enjoy the next month of preparing for what is going to be an amazing year! Share your awesomeness and embrace those around you and their efforts!
ReplyDeleteGreat work!
Craig
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteHey CRAIG! What's that old saying? Go Big or Go Home? :) I seem to get more confidence as I age. I have a great feeling about this year --- and our blogging team's work! When I am surrounded by such inspiration, I can't go wrong.
DeleteLisa,
ReplyDeleteBalance- As an administrator with a young family-balance is so important. Finding time to do everything and to do it well. Learn to give jobs out-help others learn and give them what they need. I know that you will. looking Forward to connecting!
Jarred
Thanks so much. I am looking forward to learning more from you too!
Delete